Chemtronics Application Guide - Cleaning 1.25mm and 2.5mm Fiber Optic Backplane Connections using Precision Swabs

The Need For Cleaning

The need to clean fiber optic connectors is well documented. The more difficult operation is cleaning the backplane end-face. This end-face, located on the backside of the alignment sleeve, is subject to contamination from the patch cord connection. The simple action of removing this connection can create a vacuum that enables airborne dust to enter this connection, causing soils to accumulate around the ferrules in the alignment sleeve. This contamination will then be transferred within the alignment sleeve to the patch cord ferrule. Clean both sides of these connections each time they are disconnected in field installations, central office and OEM installation, or service applications. Contamination can cause signal attenuation or, in worst-case reports, complete interruption of the signal.

The Better Way

When cleaning the backplane connection if the jumper on the internal side is accessible, it is preferred to clean both internal backplane and external ‘jumper-side’ connection as described in Application Sheet # FO-APC4/QBE, “Cleaning Angled Physical Connector (APC) End Faces with the QbE® Cleaning System”. This outlines the use of the QbE® Cleaning System and Electro-Wash® PX Fiber Optic Cleaner with the Combination Cleaning process (CCpTM).

When the internal backplane connection is not accessible, highly effective cleaning is accomplished with the CoventryTM 1.25 mm Fiber Optic Swab (Part number 25123X), or the CoventryTM 2.5 mm Precision Fiber Optic Swab (Part number 25183) in combination with a small amount of Electro-Wash® PX Fiber Optic Cleaner. Alternatively, use of the CoventryTM 2.5 mm Fiber Optic Foam Swab in combination with a small amount of Electro-Wash® PX Fiber Optic Cleaner will remove all contamination. It is important not to over-saturate the backplane by spraying or dipping any solvent on a precision swab. Excess solvent can accumulate and become exceptionally difficult to dry in the hidden areas of backplane connections.

This effective cleaning method is described below:

             1) Remove the patch cord from the bulkhead.

             2) Lightly moisten the Fiber Optic Swab by spotting a small amount of Electro-Wash® PX onto the QbE®. Dab/tap the swab onto the wetted area. Hold the tip of the                   swab in the moist area for a count of 1-2-3-4-5.

             3) Insert the swab into the connector, press lightly against the connector, twist 2-3 times and remove.

             4) Dry with a second swab.

             5) Reinsert the patch cord and test for signal strength. Re-clean as necessary.

Availability:

CoventryTM 2.5 mm Precision Fiber Optic Swab

25183             100 - 2.5mm swabs per bag
25184             5 - 2.5mm swabs per bag

CoventryTM 1.25 mm Fiber Optic Swab
25123X           100 -1.25mm swabs per bag

CoventryTM 2.5 mm Fiber Optic Foam Swab
48040             500 - 2.5mm swabs per bag

Electro-Wash® PX Fiber Optic Cleaner
ES810             5 oz. aerosol

QbE® Cleaning System
QbE                200 wipe cleaning platform

MANUFACTURED BY:
ITW CHEMTRONICS INC.
8125 Cobb Center Drive
Kennesaw, GA 30152
1-800-645-5244 / 1-770-424-4888

TECHNICAL SUPPORT Hot Line: 1-800-TECH-401 (1-800-832-4401)
www.chemtronics.com
rev-02/06

NOTE: This information is believed to be accurate. It is intended for professional end users
having the skills to evaluate and use the data properly. ITW Chemtronics® does not guarantee
the accuracy of the data and assumes no liability in connection with damages incurred while
using it.